Adventure Scotland - brought to you by Scotland's National Tourism Organisation

A hot air balloon flight is an experience like no other. Carried gently by the wind, you float effortlessly over landscapes perhaps just a few hundred to several thousand feet up. People will come out of their houses to wave and even exchange a conversation if close enough. You may spot wildlife such as hares, deer, foxes or even the occasional badger.

Where to go:

As well as a dozen or so private balloonists doing their own thing in Scotland, there are now three Civil Aviation Authority certified balloon operators that provide one hour experience flights in Southern Scotland. Flights generally take place between mid-March and late October and either shortly after sunrise or within an hour or so of dusk so as to avoid the thermic winds that exist during the day.

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Ballooning in the UK is administered by the British Balloon and Airships Club. The British Association of Balloon Operators exists for membership by commercial operators.